At the heart of Guangzhou's Pearl River, the Aoyu fish lantern returned on November 16, 2025, captivating spectators on opening night of the 2025 Guangzhou International Light Festival. This colossal floating sculpture—resplendent with a dragon's head and a fish's body—once mesmerized crowds at the 15th National Games earlier this year.
Designed and built over an eight-month period by a team of local artists and engineers, this luminous inflatable sculpture glows in vibrant hues, symbolizing prosperity and protection. As it drifts along the water, it illuminates the rich tapestry of Lingnan folk culture, where the Aoyu fish stands as a legendary guardian revered by communities in Guangdong on the Chinese mainland.
Festivalgoers can witness the lantern's mythic aura alongside interactive light installations and live performances reflecting the region's heritage. With the light festival currently lighting up Guangzhou's skyline through late November, visitors are invited to explore the convergence of ancient symbolism and contemporary design.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Aoyu fish lantern highlights a growing trend in large-scale public art: blending traditional motifs with modern technology to create immersive experiences. For global travelers and digital nomads charting new cultural frontiers, this festival offers a vivid snapshot of how Chinese mainland's modern cities celebrate their roots in innovative ways.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
